It’s time for another round of NHL rumours as we close in on the weekend. We’re less than a week away from the start of training camps in the NHL. However, some general managers are having to do some extra leg work before the start of camps. Injuries are always a concern and covering for them is an important task. One team that may have to deal with this already is the Vancouver Canucks. This edition of NHL rumours takes a look at the Canucks quest for cover in between the pipes.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Vancouver Canucks May be in Goalie Market
Rumour: Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman appeared on the Donnie and Dhali Show on CHEK. The group discussed how the Canucks may bring in another goalie before the start of training camp.
Could the #Canucks still bring in another goaltender before training camp?@DonTaylor5 and @DhaliwalSports talked to Elliotte about that and much more!
Full interview..https://t.co/VswGCD16cl pic.twitter.com/a4k4d5tYKG
— Donnie & Dhali (@DonnieandDhali) September 9, 2024
Analysis: The main reason that General Manager Patrik Allvin may be searching for goalie depth is injury concerns surrounding starter Thatcher Demko. Friedman mentioned that there’s an offer out to veteran netminder Kevin Lankinen. However, the Finnish goalie may want to wait and see before committing to the Canucks.
Allvin probably wants a safety net in case Demko is out for a prolonged period. As of now, Arturs Silovs and Jiri Patera are currently on the roster. Silovs played well in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but having a goalie like Demko is needed if Vancouver has designs on a deep post-season run.
Vancouver had Casey DeSmith last season, but he signed with the Dallas Stars in the off-season. He will prove to be a serviceable option behind Jake Oettinger.
Lankinen played well last season with the Nashville Predators, but has yet to sign a contract. He picked up 11 wins in 24 games last season with a 2.82 goals-against-average and a shutout. The four-year pro did a great job spelling Juuse Saros last season. A veteran like the 29-year-old could be what a team needs to provide depth in between the pipes.
Is There Interest?
Freidman mentioned Lankinen could eventually sign with the Canucks. However, he may see what other teams might come calling. The insider said that the waiting game might be worth playing at this moment.
If Lankinen does come to Vancouver, Allvin might still be in the market for another goalie. Friedman mentioned that Vancouver could bring in a goalie on professional tryout or a low-risk contract.
Team President Jim Rutherford has plenty of experience no matter who comes into the fold. He might be able to structure a deal that can protect his investment. Chances are that any signing might have to go through waivers when Demko does return.
Rutherford can structure a deal that gives a hefty bonus so a team won’t be so quick to claim a goalie off waivers. This is similar to what the Toronto Maple Leafs did last season with Martin Jones. That contract allowed Jones to pass through the AHL and NHL without getting claimed.
Demko may end up being fine and back before the start of the season. However, depth in between the sticks is never a bad thing.
Main photo by: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
